N Scale WYE

Sorry if this has been asked and answered.
I am starting to design a n scale layout and need to know what the bare minimum space needed for a wye switch. I am planning on small engines on a stub end staging yard at the end of a mountain branch line. On the other room, I am planning 36" wide so turning is not an issue, but this branch will end up. sorta off site by my desk and I am preferring a non-fiddle method of turning the engine. Cars can just run backwards.

Thanks for any help.

John

 

Wyes take up a bit of space.
Here's three using Atlas code 55 track, 10" curve minimum, with 6" stubs:



On the left is 16"x41", middle is 29"x29", and far right (using Atlas curved turnouts) is 34"x24".
With smaller radius (and/or tighter curved turnouts), you could shrink that, depending if you need shallower or skinnier.
But compare those wyes with the Peco turntable with a 6" diameter (shown above). Or even the Atlas with 7 1/2" diameter.
Since it's staging, wye not a turntable?

 

Even the Atlas motorized turntable isn't a bad option assuming you aren't using large power on this branch.

 

Well, the turntable and maybe even a small roundhouse at the end would be cool. Probably better looking than the WYE idea.

Thanks for the suggestions.

John

 

I am going to post a layout plan as soon as I have "purchased the right of way from the Land management office". And get it down on paper. This will wrap around my desk area and incorporate my end of the playroom/entertainment room/office now.

John

 

And it doesn't take up nearly as much room as a wye does.

 

A small wye can take up very little space. I made one using a 12" radius (make sure your engines can swing it) on the short leg. One side is straight and the last leg is a 24" radius at the tightest. #5 turnouts to the short leg and a #7 from the straight leg to the other radius. My Kato SD40-2s can turn around in that space.